In a high-energy, thought-provoking session, Dr. Mark Batey explored the vital role of creativity and innovation in leadership—and why understanding the difference between the two is essential.

While often used interchangeably, Dr. Batey emphasised that creativity and innovation are not the same—and they don't occur at the same time. In fact, rushing to implement ideas too quickly can stifle the creative process before it has a chance to flourish.

• Creativity is the process of developing ideas to solve problems and take advantage of opportunities
• Innovation is the application of creativity that leads to a new and useful concept, product, service or process. 

The Five Key Principles of Creativity and Innovation:

1. Creativity Comes from Connections
   Great ideas are born from linking knowledge in unexpected ways. The more diverse and diffuse these connections, the stronger the creative output.

2. The Chain Reaction Effect
   Creativity is contagious. Once ideas begin to flow in a team setting, they gather momentum—just like dominos falling in a sequence.

3. Strength in Diversity
   Diverse teams generate more innovative ideas. It's not just about surface-level differences, but tapping into deep diversity—varied experiences and perspectives that power real breakthroughs.

4. Strengths are weaknesses too
   Over using or over relying on a strength in a person or a team will make it into a weakness. 

5. Follow the Creative Problem Solving Process
   Often, the best ideas arise when you're not trying too hard—like in the shower or during a walk. The key is to recognise and capture those insights when they come.

Outside-In Thinking: Expanding Perspectives

Dr. Batey discussed the concept of outside-in thinking—bringing in inspiration from beyond the team or organisation to shift perspectives and unlock new possibilities.

Throughout the session, he explored practical techniques to spark creative thinking, alongside real-world case studies showcasing how these strategies have delivered impactful innovation.

Watch the event: